Does Early Rhythm Control for Atrial Fibrillation Reduce Dementia Risk in Patients with Prior Stroke?

Early rhythm control has been associated with a reduced risk for dementia in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF); however, whether this association is found in patients with previous stroke is unknown. Stroke survivors have a high risk for the development of dementia, similar to that in individuals 10 years older who have not suffered a stroke.

Using South Korean national insurance data, investigators identified stroke survivors who developed AF. They then compared the new onset of dementia between patients who had received early rhythm control and those who had not (usual-care group). Dementia was defined as one or more outpatient or inpatient hospital visits with relevant diagnostic codes and prescription of dementia medication includin…